By Theresa Russell
Posted On: Jan 10, 2023
Blanketed with a fresh and thick layer of fluffy snow, the blanched landscaped beckoned me to grab my snowshoes and go out in search of fresh powder. Luckily, I live near a metropark - as most of Ohioans likely do.
Having waited for several months for conditions like these, I scrambled to Blacklick Woods Metro Park, knowing that there were plenty of open areas to literally make my mark.
When I arrived at Blacklick Woods, I scoped out a nice open space. Few people were at the park - another nice benefit of snowshoeing. Strapping my shoes on, I felt like a little kid on the first day of snow. I nearly ran to the open area, admiring the stunning landscape around me.
My footprints were the first to make their mark. The snow laden trees that muffled any sound created a special atmosphere, calming and beautiful.
Snowshoeing Comes with Many Great Benefits:
- Requires little equipment
- Equipment - snowshoes and poles for tricky terrain - are inexpensive
- Can basically be done anywhere
- Ohio has outstanding state parks, metroparks, and trails that lend themselves perfectly to the sport
- Great exercise (even though it's like walking in a giant pair of shoes!)
- Ideal for any age. Both kids and adults can do it, and it's a perfect family outing
Dressing properly means remembering not to overdress. For me, I wear tights or thermal underwear covered by rain/snow pants; and that keeps me at the right temperature for snowshoeing, so that I don't overheat once on my way. Keeping my extremities warm is a priority. Toasty tootsies, fingers, and ears make the experience all the more enjoyable.
Other Snowshoeing Spots to Check Out
The paved trails and flatter hiking trails throughout Five Rivers Metroparks in Dayton are perfect for this winter activity. And since Dayton is home to the nation's largest paved trail network, with more than 340 miles of connected trails, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the snow all season long.
While you can explore several trails at Ohio State Parks this winter, the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake also offers plenty of snowshoeing options. Depending on the weather, from December - March, interested guests can also rent snowshoes.
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore winter in Ohio. So get out and enjoy the snowy days of winter.
For more #WinterinOhio things to do when it snows, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
*Originally written in February 2016. Updated for January 2023
